By submitting my information above, I acknowledge that I have reviewed and agreed to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, and I agree to receive updates and marketing messages from time to time from Tom Petty and his record label.

By submitting my information above, I acknowledge that I have reviewed and agreed to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and I agree to receive updates and marketing messages from time to time from Tom Petty and Artist Arena.

THANKS! For Tom Petty news that is customized to you and your hometown such as local concerts and appearances, please fill out the form. At Artist Arena, we are very concerned about our fans' privacy and do not share or sell your information to other third parties.

Latest Blog Posts

On July 31 at the gig in Philadelphia, PA Mike Campbell met Griffin Black, a
14 year old Virginian who has hand built a replica of Mike's vintage
Telecaster, "The Red Dog." This is the guitar Mike is playing in the video
for "Refugee."

Griffin's work so impressed Mike that he played Griffin's guitar onstage at
the show in Philly.

Check out Griffin's article about his experience building the guitar and meeting Mike in
today's Washington Post and watch video of his encounter with Mike right here!

On July 31 at the gig in Philadelphia, PA Mike Campbell met Griffin Black, a
14 year old Virginian who has hand built a replica of Mike's vintage
Telecaster, "The Red Dog." This is the guitar Mike is playing in the video
for "Refugee."

Griffin's work so impressed Mike that he played Griffin's guitar onstage at
the show in Philly.

Check out Griffin's article about his experience building the guitar and meeting Mike in
today's Washington Post and watch video of his encounter with Mike right here!

Comments

I was in tears reading this story. Isn't Mike amazing? You know, my husband and I saw TP & Hearbreakers at Blossom last night and my husband said Mike Campbell is a peer with Jeff Beck and that Mike and Jeff are better than Clapton. My husband has a master's degree in music, so he knows what he's talking about. I don't have a music degree, I'm just an RN, but I do know what sounds good, and I totally agaree with my hubby. Mike was so sweet to this young boy and his beautiful guitar. Go Mike!

This story touches both chords in me.
Griffin's parents are doing a great job, exposing him to music that can be so fundamental in his life.
An amazing kid who recognizes an amazing - and decent - musician.
And we're all so glad you're recovered, Mike.
All the best to you, Tom and the entire band!

Griffin, you're a class act. I hope kids read about your story are inspired enough to follow a dream. Just like Mike and Tom did! Good job!!
Mike Campbell, I can't clearly put into works what a class act you are, too. That young man will never ever forget you!
Just saw you this evening in Hartford and my gosh, I was in rock and roll heaven all night long. You guys were ON THE MONEY all night, great concert. Thank you!!!

I love this story. I love the moment when Griffin is watching Mike play HIS guitar, eyes glazed over, and suddenly realizes what is really happening. Priceless. The Washington Post video has a bonus clip at the end. Mike is standing there with coffee cup in hand, like a proud papa, watching Griffin play "You Wreck Me" on The Red Dog". Mike Campbell....an incredible guitarist and an even more incredible man.

I love this story. I love that moment when Griffin is watching Mike play HIS guitar, eyes glazed over, and he suddenly realizes what is really happening. Priceless. The Washington Post video has a little bonus clip at the end...Mike standing there with his coffee cup, like a proud papa, watching Griffin play "You Wreck Me" on The Red Dog. Mike Campbell....an incredible guitarist and an even more incredible man.

Griffin, you are truly gifted and wise beyond your years. What a great night for me..not only did I get to sit in the third row and see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, but I got to meet you and watch Mike Campbell show you your guitar while he was playing! What a wonderful guy to meet with you, play your guitar, sign it and then tell Tom about this and have him sign it! They are so classy. I wish you lots of luck in running down your dream. Your story is so heartwarming.

This story warmed my heart and made my day! Griffin, you are one amazing young man. Mike, you are such a sweet person to meet with him and play his guitar on stage! Thank you for sharing this story with us!

and just one more reason so many people love this band. I'm glad there's video evidence for any doubters you tell this story to in ensuing years. Plus, your description of what makes Mike Campbell such a great player is really impressive for someone your age!

Wow, Griffin what a special day for you. Mike, Tom and the Heartbreakers are a real class act to take the time to make one guy's life so special. This why we love you.Congrats Griffin, you have a real talent and your journey has just begun. Enjoy!

What a thrill for that 14-year-old, and a nice treat for Mike Campbell fans. The best part of the video is when Mike says, "Let me plug it in and see what it sounds like. Do you mind?" As if the kid was going to say, "Well, I'd rather you didn't." And for Campbell to actually play the guitar during the concert was very cool. Thanks for the video; a great job all the way around.

All I know about guitars is I love to hear them played, especially by Mike and Tom. But to build one, and build a replica no less.... What a talented and sweet young man. And how, lucky for him to have his dream come true in such a wonderful way. It's just a beautiful story - thank you for sharing.